Right now our local, state, and federal governments are having to cut programs, reduce services, and lay off employees due to COVID-19. It is increasingly obvious that it is time to raise taxes. 

And I don’t mean just on the top earners or as a temporary fix. Many people in Jefferson County are living very comfortably with well financed retirements. We have incomes that are secure; most would not be significantly threatened by a fair and progressive tax system at both the local and federal level.

Much of our nations’s infrastructure is in deteriorating shape, our school systems are poorly funded and our social support systems are inadequate. Inequality is at record levels and a decent and fair income is unavailable to a large segment of our population. The tax system must be overhauled to remedy this. 

It is interesting that “progressive” Washington state has a tax system that is the most regressive in the nation. (Yes, we are 50th.) 

It is time our local representatives (Sen. Kevin Van De Wege, Rep. Steve Tharinger and Rep. Mike Chapman) got behind changing it. 

At the national level we also need to increase our tax revenues.  Most of the proposed programs put forth by the Democrats are necessary, but they need to be paid for. 

Politicians love to say they will pay for them by raising taxes on the top 1 percent or so, but let’s be realistic. It is going to take increased tax money from most of us. 

I welcome your comments and ideas, and I encourage you to let your state and national representatives know what you support. 

Roger McPherson
PORT TOWNSEND